The big difference here was that Dave, unlike Keith, was a musician and an extraordinary one too. A unique one. The kind of guy that comes along once in a lifetime and you feel privileged that he came along during your earthly span.
The Take it to the Bridge regulars led the cortege up the drag to the Saltwell Park Crematorium and, as I looked around, the only familiar faces that weren't there were those who'd either moved away, were out shopping or were dead.
One of them was dead - or was he?
Mitch Mitchell of the Prohibition Bar - the former Jazz Café where Dave and Keith had a somewhat volatile relationship - in his eulogy managed to dispel the illusion that Dave was gone. His words, unlike those of so many Humanists to whom a funeral is just another gig, came from the heart and suggested that the casket was empty and that Dave was just takin' five.
This illusion was emphasised when a recording was played of Dave singing Nature Boy. Was there a dry eye in the house? I didn't see many.
The mourners weren't mourning - well they were mourning in the way that only jazz people can mourn. They whooped, they hollored and gave the main man a standing ovation.
Afterwards, we headed back to the Globe in anticipation of more music and memories.
First though there was a poignant moment when one of Dave's daughters, Tam (?), now living in London and a friend of legendary pianist Julian Joseph OBE played a recording by 'JuJo' of Nature Boy that was simply breathtaking. I've changed my mind about this tune - two great versions in one day - I'm eating humble pie.
As I left the jammers were hovering on the horizon and I bid my farewells otherwise I'd be carried out. It was only 5:30pm and I was already at the 10:00pm state of mind.
Nevertheless, I hung around long enough to hear Jude singing and playing bass better than most of those who sing and play bass. Dave would have wanted no less.
I know it's customary to end these posts with rest in peace but, do you think that's what Dave would want? No, he'll be saying to Gabriel 'Can I sit in?
Did Duke Ellington have a better send off? Lance
PS; We left the Crem to the sounds of Dizzy, Getz, Stitt, John Lewis, Ray Brown, Herb Ellis and Stan Levey - musicians who absolutely typified where Dave (and I) come from.
3 comments :
Nice words Lance.
It was an honour to be asked to be in the procession leading the hearse. I'll remember yesterday for years to come.
It was pleasure to lead Dave's service, certainly one I won't forget, just like the marvellous man himself. A lovely write up Lance.
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